Long before it was taken over by a trio of brothers who repurposed it as a senior center, the Melting Pot in West Scranton served as a warm gathering spot for parties, banquets and special occasions.
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Days off were made for relaxing — and for eating. For many, Labor Day is the last workday off until Thanksgiving. Local Flavor knows the joy of not setting an alarm clock to sleep in the next day.
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Professional background: Financial adviser for 25 years, currently with Ameriprise Financial

Title: Chairman of UNC's Founders Committee and board member

Q: Why is this anniversary significant?

A: UNC has been dedicated to assessing and meeting the needs of low-income families, youth and senior citizens in Northeast Pennsylvania, as well as providing people with the tools necessary to ... attain self-sufficiency since 1923. At that time, a small settlement house was opened in central city Scranton primarily for the African-American community, along with a center in the Bellevue area of Scranton for young girls and families. In 1970, these two centers joined to form United Neighborhood Centers. Upon reaching this 90-year milestone, the agency has taken a look at where we came from, where we are and where we are going and is developing new programs that will address local needs while celebrating our rich history.

Q: Tell us a little about the documentary that will be shown.

A: The video will show the beginnings of the agency, as well as current programs and services through interviews with past and present board members, community leaders and staff. UNC worked with TwentyFive Eight Productions to put together something that would really show the widespread impact the agency has on the community.

Q: What else is planned for this kickoff celebration?

A: The kickoff celebration will serve as the announcement of UNC's new initiative called the Cabrini Center for the Arts. The agency is planning to revitalize the West Side Community Center in Scranton and make it the leading space for at-risk youth to become engaged in the arts. We will also be announcing our other anniversary celebration events including "A Day in the Life" which will be a simulation held at the University of Scranton on Sept. 13 and an end-of-the-year awards dinner to be held at the Scranton Cultural Center on Dec. 5.

Q: Describe what UNC does and its importance to the community?

A: From Childcare Centers, Senior Centers, Youth Programs, Housing Services, Literacy Education, and other programs too numerous to describe here, UNC has been helping to build stronger communities in NEPA for 90 years. UNC might be one of the most underappreciated assets in all of NEPA. And as I've come to learn, this agency touches the lives of thousands of people every single day of the week.

Details: The event is free to the public. For more information, call 346-0759, ext. 104.

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